Prosecution in the Nalchik attack case appeals against change of Budtuev's custody

The state prosecution in the case dealing with the 2005 attack on power structures of Kabardino-Balkaria lodged a cassation presentation to the Supreme Court of Russia challenging the change of custody for defendant Kazbek Budtuev. The "Caucasian Knot" correspondent was informed about it by lawyer Liza Shak, who is defending Budtuev.

The cassation presentation is accompanied by a letter of the head of the Nalchik UVD, saying that Kazbek Budtuev, whose custody was replaced for home arrest, lives together with his mother. Now, she has to stay in bed; there is nobody to buy food for her. Besides, Kazbek Budtuev walks or goes by public transport to court sessions, which is a violation.

The letter also notes that since Kazbek Budtuev does not work and has no means of subsistence, "his contacts with the armed underground can resume".

Advocate Liza Shak has named these statements groundless. "Food for the family is delivered by the advocate. Besides, at the forthcoming court session I am going to petition about admission to them another family member - a sister or an aunt," said Ms Shak.

In her opinion, the statements that defendant's links with militants can resume are same groundless. "Budtuev never had any links with the underground, and, therefore, there's nothing to resume. Mother receives pension, and they both can live on it until all the charges are finally lifted from Budtuev," she said.